Illinois Department of Agriculture

The recent tragic events on I-55 south of Springfield, Illinois, on May 1 had many people discussing what could have or should have been done.

Breaking the stigma of mental health issues is one aspect of helping those who are challenged with stressful situations.

Representatives from nearly 50 diverse agricultural organizations met with lawmakers at the state capitol during the 53rd annual Illinois Ag Legislative Day.

If you asked the five Illinois FFA state officers where they would be on any given night during February and March, each answer would be different each time.

In the state capitol, just a few miles from his former office as director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, and from the state capitol building, where he once strolled as president of Illinois Farm Bureau, Philip Nelson returned to the podium to speak to an ag audience.

The successes by farmers and the accomplishments by the state’s Department of Agriculture were highlighted to open the Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable.

A support system is available to help the Illinois farming community. “The farmer mental health initiative is incredibly important,” said Krista Lisser, public information officer at Illinois Department of Agriculture, at the Conservation Cropping Seminar.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Agriculture shared accomplishments made in 2022 to support the state’s No. 1 industry.

When it comes to showing the benefits of cover crops, for Joey Deloian of the Rock Island County Soil and Water Conservation District, the proof is in the planting.

Local food and specialty crop growers are joining forces for Illinois’ largest conference focused on bolstering the local food supply chain.

For the past year, Thomas Titus has added “president” to his already lengthy list of titles that include dad, husband, showpig producer and pork producer. Titus has served as president of the Illinois Pork Producers Association.

Illinois will use $14.4 million in U.S. Department of Agriculture funding to buy locally produced food and distribute it to those in need, according to state officials.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture, along with University of Illinois Extension, is hosting its annual Certified Livestock Manager Training.

The Illinois Soybean Association hosted its first ever Impact Awards banquet. The evening was full of celebration, recognition and reflecting upon everything ISA has been able to accomplish in 2022.

Despite a rough start weather-wise and higher prices for fertilizer and other supplies, farmers appear to be doing OK this season as a late harvest gets into full swing.